January 30, 2020
What does it say?
When Esau’s hatred intensified to a determination to kill Jacob, Rebekah convinced Isaac to send Jacob to the home of her brother Laban.
What does it mean?
Esau’s hatred for Jacob burned in his mind to the point of planning his murder. Upon hearing this, Rebekah intervened once again to protect the son she loved. She told Jacob to leave until Esau forgot about the matter. She persuaded Isaac to send Jacob to Paddan Aran to her brother’s house under the ruse of wanting Jacob to find a suitable wife—not a wife from ‘the daughters of Heth.’ Isaac agreed, blessed Jacob again, and sent him to his uncle’s home. It is unlikely that she ever saw Jacob again— a high price to pay for their deception. To retaliate, Esau married the daughter of his Uncle Ishmael.
How should I respond?
How many times do you think Rebekah longed to have her son back? What circumstance has come between you and a friend or family member? With whom have you lost touch? Would a phone call or personal note now alleviate regrets in the future? Family ties can be broken so easily, but humility and a forgiving spirit can restore what was once thought ruined. Have you, like Esau, made a bad decision just to get even with someone? Was it worth the price? God can restore those relationships if you let Him. The choice is yours.